In a press statement released yesterday, Anton Groenewald, the City's executive director for tourism, events and marketing, said the City was disappointed that the match had had to be cancelled.

Groenewald said that despite receiving permission from the English Football Association and the South African Football Association, the Premier Soccer League had said the fixture was before the close of the PSL season.

"Unfortunately, another suitable date could not be agreed upon by all the parties. The City, however, remains committed to bringing world-class football and entertainment to its shores. It will continue to work towards showcasing its status as a globally recognised and major events destination," said Groenewald.

Fellow Premiership sides Everton and Newcastle United are believed to be playing Ajax Cape Town, the Urban Warriors, in a pre-season tournament in July. The dates, subject to confirmation, are as follows:

Newcastle United vs Ajax Cape Town (July 20)

Newcastle United vs Everton (July 24)

Everton vs Ajax Cape Town (July 27)

In July last year the City hosted Manchester United, which played against Ajax. Capetonians are crazy about English Premier League soccer, and Manchester United and Liverpool both have massive followings in the city.